Artists’ Definition
What Does the World Define as an Artist
I don’t know what the rest of the world defines as an artist. I only know what I define as an artist.
As an artist, my definition of myself is someone who passionately wants to share what I see. To communicate, sometimes verbally, but most often in the form of painting, drawing, molding, sculpting, as that is the way I can most effectively say what I wish to.
Teaching is also a form of art. I teach piano and music theory and art, and suffer tremendously during the summer months, when my students are on holiday. I live to teach, and feel regenerated and revived after lessons.
So, what is art? Art is worship of a sort, an acknowledgement of the world we live in, in whatever medium we are comfortable with. It is recognition of the beauty around us, the smallness of our individualities, and the hope that our work will help others, to see, smell, hear, feel and share all that we have. And pass it on.
Art is NOT about politics, trends, fashion, style. I guess these are my four worst bugaboos.
I think it is more rewarding to stick to the truths of ones’ callings, and not make a fortune, than to sell out and deliver what is ‘in’ for the sake of a pay cheque.
I don’t approach the making of art with a dollar sign in front of my eyes. When I am creating a work, my motive is purely the joy of doing. If I do sell a painting, of course I’m delighted. After all, I have creature needs too, and need to replenish paints and brushes every so often. 
Feedback welcome.
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Comments
Comment from Malcha
Time: December 1, 2009, 1:28 pm
So very well said, Francis. I wish you the very best in your endeavors. Please feel free to stay in touch with me, I would be happy to correspond with you.
Comment from Rick Runciman
Time: February 24, 2010, 3:09 am
That’s a wonderful definition of art Diane, and an equally great attitude towards being true to thyself. I worked as a machinist all my life, and viewed that as an art form. To be able to take a piece of raw metal, cut away all the excess, and produce a beautiful, shiny new part my employer could sell and keep me employed. We all need to pay the bills and eat, unfortunately. At age 47, a friend gave me some prismacolor pencils when he cleaned out his basement. A month later, with no experience or training, I finished my first drawing ever, then another one of a leopard resting on a branch, and became attracted to exploring a gift I never knew was within. Then I bought some watercolors, brushes, and a pad of paper , shortly afterwards I had two more watercolor landscapes, and was hooked. I still have those pieces except the first drawing which I gave to an old West Hill friend whose father was an artist. I still love painting in watercolor and drawing with prismacolors, and have no plans for a formal education in art . I do it simply because I enjoy it, and will continue to paint and draw until I’m no longer capable of holding a brush or pencil. Art for art’s sake, how true! I guess all artists evolve in different manners, and you are indeed very fortunate that you discovered your love of art at a young age. I’m looking forward to reading your comments on the art I have posted, now that I’m aware it will be a highly professional opinion.
Thank you for sharing so honestly of yourself, it’s inspirational, and refreshing.
Comment from Francis
Time: December 1, 2009, 11:15 am
I truly understand what you mean. For 15 years, I have sold myself out believing that I needed to make a living. It got so bad that I gave up art thinking that maybe I should make a lot of money before I pursue art. I come from Singapore and Chinese parents, a cultural atmosphere where materialism strikes harder than anything else in my environment. I was depressed for a long time because I did not do art. I even gave up music thinking that I would never go anywhere with it. I am now 31, last year, I signed myself back to study art as I should have. I now study at Capilano University in North Vancouver and I am loving every minute of it. But what was more important to me was to realise that I do art for art, my love for art. It brings out the appreciation of everything in this world. I am truly happy knowing that I undid the knot that tied me to the egoistic need for “financial freedom.” The world is much more precious than that.
Thanks for sharing your words and works with the world.